Emirates Group Security and Etihad Aviation Group sign MoU for cooperation in Aviation Security

Dubai, UAE, 8 January 2018 - Emirates Group Security and Etihad Aviation Group (EAG) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in aviation security. The MoU was signed by Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline, and Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Aviation Group, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, His Excellency Hamad Abdulla Al Shamsi, Vice Chairman, Etihad Aviation Group and senior representatives from Emirates Group Security, Etihad Aviation Group, at the Emirates Group Headquarters in Dubai.

The historic agreement, the first between the UAE’s two world-leading
aviation groups, signals the importance of closer collaboration in aviation
security to effectively exploit joint synergies to enhance efficiency and
security for the benefit of both groups’ customers. The cooperation is also in
keeping with the spirit of the ‘Year of Zayed’ which celebrates the vision and
leadership of the founding father of the UAE.

One of the key areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU involves the
sharing of information and intelligence between Emirates Group Security and
Etihad Aviation Group on critical aspects of aviation security. The two entities
will also work together on operational areas both within and outside the UAE.

HH Sheikh Ahmed said: “Security is one of the foremost priorities of the
global aviation industry. Over the years, Emirates Group Security has built
strong expertise and capabilities to successfully navigate the complex
landscape of security risks and threats in aviation. Through this agreement,
Emirates Group Security will collaborate with Etihad Aviation Group to share
know-how and extend aviation security services in order to better handle shared
challenges, which ultimately benefits travellers.”

HE Hamad Abdulla Al Shamsi said: “This is a landmark partnership and one
which is as important symbolically as it is strategically. As the national
airline of the UAE, we have a responsibility to seek and develop greater
collaboration with our major aviation partners in the UAE for the continued
safety and convenience of millions of travellers worldwide.

“Security is our utmost priority and given the current sensitive climate
we operate in, it should never be underestimated. The signing of an MoU between
the two largest aviation groups in the country will have a positive impact on
local and international operations by significantly enhancing aviation security
measures. By working closely together, and pooling our expertise and resources,
Etihad Aviation Group and Emirates Group Security will build a stronger
platform from which to share best practice and knowledge, allowing us to
provide the safest travelling environment for our customers.”

Under the MoU, Emirates Group Security will also extend its security
training and education programmes to Etihad Airways and will support the
Abu Dhabi-based airline in the development of its own security escort
capability. In the longer term, Emirates Group Security will also share the
content and structure of its extensive security development curriculum and work
with Etihad Aviation Group in setting up a structured in-house security
education programme with possible university level accreditation.